MBTA scaling back late-night service

(State House News Service) -- State transportation officials are paring back late-night MBTA service, saying the current pilot program is unsustainable.

The state board that oversees the MBTA on Wednesday agreed to a staff recommendation that the program continue, but run until 2 a.m. instead of the current 2:30 a.m. in order to match supply and demand for the service. MBTA staffers said the reduction was an alternative to eliminating the service or charging a premium.

The program, which currently includes 15 bus routes, will also eliminate five late-night bus routes within the Boston area: The No. 15, No. 22, No. 71, No. 73 and No. 77.

Staffers said the MBTA should also start a request for proposals for third party companies that could provide the late-night service.